Kruse linked to China move

ONE of the Socceroos' biggest names could be the latest to join the Chinese money train with negotiations taking place for star winger Robbie Kruse to join Liaoning Whowin.

The 48-time Socceroo has been left out of Bayer Leverkusen's mid-season trip to Florida as talks continue over his departure from the club.

It is understood that the finer details need to be ironed out with the German giants for the services of Brisbane-born Kruse, who is out of contract at the end of the season and available on a free transfer at that point in time.

Another club is also believed to be pursuing the former Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory star.

If the move does go through it could well draw criticism from many quarters with another of the national team's crucial players moving away from Europe and one of world football's biggest leagues for the developing, but still raw, Chinese Super League. Despite the host of star names moving there, it lacks the exposure of Europe's big leagues.

Kruse's case for taking the Chinese cash is strengthened, however, when you take into account the 28-year-old's horrible injury record of late.